Live updates: Gaza ceasefire plan and regional reactions
US President Donald Trump signaled that there is, “for the most part, consensus” on the next stages of the Gaza ceasefire plan, while acknowledging that some details would need to be worked out. In conversations spanning Friday into the weekend, Trump also highlighted the remaining hostages in Gaza and suggested that Hamas is moving them to precarious locations as negotiators push for a durable truce.
Trump’s remarks come as international diplomacy gears up for a broader summit in Cairo, where world leaders are expected to discuss the path forward after a fragile, U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Axios reports indicate a high-profile lineup that could include leaders from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and several Gulf and Asian partners. Notably, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s participation was not confirmed for the Cairo discussions, underscoring the delicate politics surrounding any enduring agreement.
What the plan envisions
The ongoing talks center on a staged framework intended to solidify a ceasefire, facilitate humanitarian aid, and determine who governs Gaza as Israeli forces reposition. Trump has framed the deal as one that will hold because both sides are exhausted by conflict, while acknowledging that the implementation details depend on negotiations with Hamas and other stakeholders.
Key elements anticipated in the plan include a broader humanitarian relief effort, increased aid flows to Gaza, and conditions regarding the disarmament and future governance of the territory. The United Nations has been authorized to scale up aid deliveries, with 170,000 metric tons staged and ready to move through crossings such as Kerem Shalom—part of a broader effort to restore civilian access and essential services after heavy fighting.
Humanitarian access and UN role
UN officials stress the importance of safe passage for aid workers and civilians returning to areas that were heavily damaged. Stéphane Dujarric, the UN spokesperson, noted that fuel, medical supplies, and other critical materials are already flowing to support relief operations, though the pace and reach of assistance depend on secure corridors and predictable access for aid convoys.
Lebanon’s stance amid cross-border tension
In a related development, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun condemned overnight Israeli strikes that targeted civilian facilities in the south. The health ministry reported at least one fatality and several injuries, with the National News Agency confirming strikes on bulldozer and excavator yards. Aoun described the attacks as a “heinous” act against civilian infrastructure, stressing that they carry implications in the wake of the Gaza ceasefire accord.
Israel confirmed strikes in southern Lebanon, asserting it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure and related civil engineering assets used to re-establish militant capabilities. The exchanges underscore the fragile security environment in the region as international mediators work to prevent a broader spillover from the Gaza corridor into neighboring states.
Human stakes and hostage questions
As talks progress, questions remain about who will govern Gaza and whether Hamas will disarm as part of the ceasefire framework. Netanyahu has previously indicated that ongoing hostilities could resume if Hamas refuses to relinquish weapons. Meanwhile, the ceasefire deal aims to release the remaining hostages—up to 48 in total—with estimates suggesting around 20 may still be alive and set to be freed by the Monday deadline.
With a concerted international push underway, the global community is watching for tangible progress that can bridge immediate humanitarian needs with longer-term political arrangements. The coming days will be crucial as negotiators translate high-level consensus into practical steps on the ground.
What to watch next
Expect further statements from U.S. and regional leaders outlining specific milestones for ceasefire phases, humanitarian access, and security arrangements. The involvement of a wide array of countries at the Cairo summit signals a multilateral effort to stabilize a volatile landscape, but execution will hinge on the cooperation of local authorities, militant factions, and the ability to maintain safe corridors for civilians and aid workers alike.
